Are stockings something your child looks forward to each holiday season? If your child has braces, then you may be thrown for a loop on what to include. After all, candy canes, popcorn, and other popular treats are a no-no during orthodontic treatment. So, if you’re a bit stumped, keep reading to learn a few fun braces-friendly stocking stuffer ideas.
5 Braces-Friendly Stocking Stuffer Ideas
At first, you might have a hard time coming up with stocking stuffer gifts that are braces-friendly and something your child will enjoy. Here are some ideas to help inspire you:
- Electric toothbrush – Does your child have a manual toothbrush? Then it may be time to give them an upgrade! If they are a bit too young, consider simply giving them a new toothbrush, like one with a fun theme or color.
- Colorful floss – If your child has a hard time finding the motivation to floss consistently, try gifting them colorful floss to add some excitement into their oral hygiene routine.
- Flavored toothpaste – Another fun idea is to give them flavored toothpaste. Cinnamon and peppermint are great options for the holiday season!
- Sugar-free candy – While gummy and sour candies are still a no-no, sugar-free chocolate bars are delicious and don’t increase their chances of damaging their braces.
- Polaroid camera – One unique idea is to gift them a polaroid camera. That way, they can capture their journey with braces as well as the final result!
Holiday-Specific Oral Hygiene Tips
From candy on Halloween to sparkling cider on New Year’s Eve, it’s not surprising that cases of tooth decay spike this time of year. Since this can derail your child’s treatment timeline, it’s important that you help them keep their teeth cavity-free. That starts with a solid oral hygiene regimen, including brushing twice a day and flossing daily. However, there are also a few holiday-specific best practices they should adopt, such as limiting their sugar intake, not using their teeth as tools to open packages and presents, and drinking water instead of soda.
Don’t worry – orthodontic treatment doesn’t have to mean a boring holiday season for your little one. With the above ideas as inspiration, you’ll be able to find something that they’ll love!
About the Practice
Simply Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics is home to two orthodontists and a pediatric dentist. As a result, our team can help your child with everything from essential preventive care to teeth-straightening orthodontics! We also go above and beyond to share all of our tips and tricks on life with braces with parents. That way, you’re never left wondering about which holiday foods, gifts, and school lunches are braces-friendly. So, if you have a question about how to approach the holidays now that your child is undergoing orthodontic treatment or you’d like to schedule a consultation to see if they are a good candidate, don’t hesitate to visit our website or call (978) 612-6222.